EUGENE, Ore. — The used merchandise industry helps bring in nearly $25 million to the Lane County economy each year.

One of those many businesses is BRING Recycling. It contributes about three quarters of a million dollars.

A recent city report found Lane County experienced a 60-percent employment growth between 2005 and 2010 in the used merchandise sector. And Lane County has the second highest percent of total employment in the nation.

“We’re five times more productive in this area than anywhere else across in the county, and so it is pretty amazing that we find so much value in re-using materials,” said Ethan Nelson, Eugene Waste Prevention Manager.

“More and more people understand not only is it the right thing to do, it’s a way to save money and creative re-use is fun,” said Julie Daniel, BRING Recycling Executive Director.

The city says the report proves a large portion of our community values conservation.